How to Disable USB port in Windows

How to Disable USB port in Windows

Sometimes, users may need to disable the USB ports on a computer to prevent device interaction. The action can be especially useful in work environments as it prevents the unauthorized copying of sensitive data. Disabling USB ports also keeps a network from becoming infected with viruses or other malware.

To Disable USB port in Windows

If you want to prevent users from connecting to a USB storage device that is connected to a computer that is running  Windows XP, Vista, 7, or 8, then complete the following. 

The steps below only disable any USB storage device from automatically opening or running when connected to the computer (e.g. flash drive). USB devices like the keyboard and mouse will still work.

1. Access the Run box or the Search box in the Windows Start Menu by Windows button + R
2. Typing regedit in the Run or Search box.
3. Once in the Registry editor and go to location below

       HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\USBSTOR

4. In the USBSTOR, and click on “Start” DWORD and double-click “Start” to edit the value. Change the Value data to “4” and then click Ok.
5. Now Windows will no longer start the USB device when detected.

For Re-enable:- If you need to re-enable the USB after following the above steps follow the above steps again and change the value from “4” to “3”.

Disable the USB ports through BIOS setup

1. Enter BIOS setup by clicking F1 or Del at startup.
2. Go to USB Controller to check option to enable or disable the onboard USB ports.
3. Make sure all USB and Legacy USB Support is disabled or off.
4. Save, and exit. You can use F10 key to save.
5. After the computer has rebooted, check the USB ports to make sure disabled.

Caution: The above steps only work if the USB storage driver has already been installed. If the USB storage driver has not been installed, the value gets reset back to 3 when connecting a USB storage device and Windows installs the drivers.